Things are exceedingly tight in Euro 2016 qualifying's Group I. Portugal sit top of the group after four straight victories, though they are only a point clear of both Denmark and Albania with three games remaining. Fernando Santos' side have a tough run-in, and after playing the latter on Monday, they take on Denmark and Serbia in their final two matches. It's anyone's guess who'll qualify.
Portugal vs. Albania live stream: Start time, TV schedule and how to watch Euro 2016 qualifying online
Portugal’s Euro 2016 qualifier against high-flying Albania on Monday may be tougher than you’d think.
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We should have a clearer idea by the end of Monday, when Portugal travel to the Albanian city of Elbasan for the sixth game of their qualifying campaign. Whoever wins will sit atop of the group with two rounds to go, while even just a point would move Albania above Denmark and into the second automatic qualification position. You may think Portugal are strong favorites, but write Albania off at your peril: They’ve been transformed under the management of Italian coach Gianni De Biasi, who has been in charge for four years.
When they last met
That Albania are still unbeaten in qualifying is impressive enough, but their greatest achievement to date came in the opening round. A goal from Bekim Balaj early in the second half gave them a lead they held to the final whistle, despite Portugal's best efforts. It spelled the end for Portugal's coach Paulo Bento, who was sacked after an unsuccessful four-year stint.
Key player: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Cristiano Ronaldo was conspicuous by his absence in Portugal’s defeat to Albania last year, though he’ll be leading his nation’s charge on Monday. Needless to say, the Real Madrid winger is Portugal’s best player by a huge margin, and he’s capable of single-handedly producing match-winning moments. His mere presence on the field will make this a much bigger test than that which Albania overcame last September.
Match Date/Time: Monday, 2:45 p.m. ET, 8:45 p.m. local
Venue: Elbasan Arena, Elbasan, Albania
TV: ESPN Deportes (U.S. -- Spanish), Sportsnet 360 (Canada), Sky Sports Red Button (U.K.)
Online: ESPN3, WatchESPN (U.S.), Sportsnet World Now (Canada), Sky Go (U.K.)
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